Mount St. Helens continues to be a threat as small volcano is growing in its crater

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When Mount St. Helens in Washington State erupted on May 18, 1980, it took the lives of 57 people and countless animals and a forest was destroyed. Considered to be the most explosive volcanic event in the recent US history, its ash covered the region as far as Minnesota.

Today is the 36th anniversary of the disaster and the volcano remains active today. Events are being held at the mountain to mark the anniversary. As per the US Geological Survey, 130 earthquakes have been noticed in the surrounding area since mid-March.

This suggests that magma is on the move below the surface. In the event, 1,300 feet of rock was ejected, excavating a massive crater and leading to a biggest avalanche in the US history. The causalities included a herd of mountain goats and people who collected their wool for weaving. “During the eruption, the explosions rocked the mountain and could be heard almost 200 miles away”, said Vulcanologist David Johnston.

Over the past few years, the goats have returned and their estimated population would be more than a hundred. Now, tree growth is also taking place at an area which suffered blast. Hiking has also been allowed once again on the mountain and the observatory provides a good look at the crater.

As per scientists, constant check can provide enough well-timed warning for an evacuation if required. Mount St. Helens is still powerful as for the past few years as it has had a baby volcano growing in its crater.

Stephanie Grocke, a volcanologist at the Smithsonian Institution was of the view that between 2004 and 2008, the mountain has oozed out a lot of molten rock out of its crater. The mountain continues to be a threat, as it is still living and breathing.

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